Couscous with vegetables

Delicious Couscous Recipe with Vegetables

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

How does the combination of fluffy couscous and colorful vegetables soaked in delicious flavors sound? This couscous recipe with vegetables is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile. You may have already encountered couscous in various dishes, but did you know that this ingredient has a rich history? Originating from regions with diverse culinary traditions, couscous has become a symbol of comfort and family meals.

Ingredients:

- 240 g couscous
- 1 jar of mushrooms (about 400 g)
- 2 medium potatoes (or to taste)
- 200 g green beans (either fresh or frozen)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or other oil of choice)
- Salt and spices to taste (you can use paprika, pepper, herbs, curry, or even chili if you like it spicy)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the couscous: Start by adding 300 ml of water to a pot. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to boil. When the water starts to boil, add the couscous, stir gently, and cover the pot with a lid. Let it hydrate for about 5-7 minutes or until it absorbs all the water. Once it has puffed up, use a fork to fluff it.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Boil them in salted water for about 10-15 minutes or until they become tender. Check them with a fork: if it goes in easily, they are ready. Drain and set aside.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden. Then, add the mushrooms from the jar (you can chop them smaller if you prefer) and the green beans. Continue to sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes.

4. Adding the flavors: Add the diced bell pepper and your preferred spices. If you like spicy dishes, now is the time to add the chili. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.

5. The final combination: Add the boiled potatoes to the skillet, stirring gently to combine them with the other vegetables. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients (about 150 ml) and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. Finally, add the crushed garlic and mix well.

6. Serving: In a bowl, place the fluffed couscous and pour the vegetable mixture on top. Gently mix to combine the ingredients.

Serving suggestions: This dish can be served warm, alongside a fresh salad or even as a side to a roast. Additionally, for an extra burst of flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Helpful tips: If you want to enhance the flavor even more, you can add some green or black olives or even a few cubes of feta cheese for a creamy touch.

Nutritional benefits: Couscous is a good source of complex carbohydrates that provide energy, while the vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe is rich in fiber, thanks to the vegetables, and has a moderate caloric content, making it ideal for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! You can experiment with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or squash.

2. How can I make the couscous more flavorful? You can add spices like cumin or coriander, or infuse the water with herbs before adding the couscous.

3. How much water should I use for couscous? The general rule is 1 part couscous to 1.5 parts water, but it's always good to check the instructions on the package.

4. Can I prepare the couscous in advance? Yes, you can prepare the couscous a few hours ahead and keep it covered at room temperature. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

5. What drinks pair well with this dish? A refreshing lemonade or iced mint tea are excellent choices to complement the meal.

So, don’t wait any longer! Embrace this simple and delicious couscous recipe with vegetables. It's a fantastic choice for a healthy meal, full of color and flavor. Enjoy!